9731. And the net shall be even unto the middle of the altar. That this signifies the extension of the sensuous, is evident from the signification of “the net,” as being the sensuous (of which above, n. 9726); its extension is signified by its being “unto the middle of the altar.” The secret which this extension involves cannot be described to the apprehension unless it is known that this sensuous which is signified by “the grating, a network,” extends with man from the head down to the loins, and there ceases. It is this extension that was represented by the extension of the net even to the middle of the altar; for the representatives which are in nature bear relation to the human form, and have a signification in accordance with their relation to this form (n. 9496). But from the loins there is continued with man the sensuous which is the next inward, and which was represented by the general overlaying or covering of brass about the altar (of which above, n. 9722).